Story number 4 for 14 Aug 2003

(USA)–Meanwhile, over the last decade, teen pregnancy rates fell significantly. However, there are still thousands who find themselves at a crossroads between motherhood and adulthood. Betsy Stretar directs a program called ‘Young Lives’, a part of the ministry of Young Life. She says they target teen moms. “The needs of teen moms are quite extensive. We care for the whole person. Part of the responsibility and the training that we provide is that staff person or that volunteer that’s working with that teen mom is familiar with the resources in the community.” Stretar says the ministry often comes through a kind of mentoring relationship. “Our partnership with the church is a really great tool for us by recruiting and training Christian women who really have a passion for this type of girl. We want to give them an opportunity to serve the Lord and to come alongside those teen moms.”